Opposition Member of Parliament, Ketan Lal has apologised for a social media post he shared that caused concern among some Members of Parliament and members of the public.
Lal informed Parliament that the content he posted was taken directly from the Fiji Times "Quick Views" column and was an article that had already been published and existed in the public domain.
He expressed regret for sharing the article and apologised for any pain, discomfort, or emotional distress caused.
Lal stressed that unity, respect, and cultural sensitivity should guide their conduct at all times, both inside and outside Parliament, and assured that he would ensure his future actions reflect the responsibility placed upon him as a Member of Parliament.
Meanwhile, Assistant Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs Shalen Kumar confirms that they have filed a Police report against Lal.
He strongly condemned the post, saying it recklessly referenced the Great Council of Chiefs, the Kai Viti, and the KVT crime gang.
Kumar says the post was a calculated, irresponsible and divisive act, adding that such behaviour undermines national unity and threatens the multi-ethnic harmony the Government is working to uphold.
He says Lal’s use of the term Kai Viti in a context linked to criminality is deeply offensive and an attempt to inflame racial tensions.
Kumar says he will not condone any statement that targets the i-Taukei community, just as he would not tolerate similar remarks directed at Fijians of Indian descent or any other group.
He adds that Lal’s rhetoric is not merely political, but potentially criminal, and says Fiji must put an end to the political exploitation of race.
Police have confirmed that an investigation is now underway.
